| 37 T T Kim Newth Waihi beach library a finalist in national awards The project brings together library services, council functions and flexible community spaces in a single, welcoming facility. Western Bay of Plenty District Council: Te Ara Mātauranga REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Te Ara Mātauranga – Waihī Beach Library and Service Centre made the finalists’ cut in a highly competitive field at this year’s Property Council New Zealand Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards. The new library and community hub was among a select group of finalists for the 2026 Warren and Mahoney Civic, Health and Arts Property Award. Other projects in the very strong finalists’ field included BNZ Theatre, Hamilton; the New Zealand International Convention Centre, Auckland; Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre, Christchurch; Te Rua Archives New Zealand, Wellington; and The Court Theatre, Christchurch. “Western Bay of Plenty District Council is extremely proud to see Te Ara Mātauranga – Waihī Beach Library and Community Hub recognised as a finalist in this category,” says Kerrie Little, Western Bay of Plenty District Council operations manager, speaking in the lead-up to the awards night, which took place on June 12. “To be shortlisted alongside such high-calibre developments is a significant achievement and a real confirmation of the vision, collaboration and care that went into delivering this facility for the Waihī Beach community as a contemporary civic space that supports learning, connection and council services under one roof.” Council and the Waihī Beach community, including local iwi and schoolchildren, gathered with excitement and pride last July for the hub’s opening, marking the culmination of many years of planning, consultation and collaboration. Strong community engagement and input throughout the project’s evolution has ensured that this building truly reflects Waihī Beach, and the community’s aspirations. Te Ara Mātauranga grew out of an enduring partnership with mana whenua, Te Whānau a Tauwhao Ki Ōtawhiwhi. The name, gifted by the hapū, carries deep layers of meaning, identity and connection to the site. “Council worked closely with Te Whānau a Tauwhao throughout the project to ensure the building authentically honours their stories, values and cultural heritage.” Whereas the previous library building was no longer meeting the needs of the area’s growing population, this new milestone facility brings together library services, council functions and flexible community spaces in a single, welcoming facility designed to serve current and future generations. It is four times bigger, has expanded opening hours, and is much better equipped to support learning, council services and community connection into the future. The high-standard construction was delivered by Hawkins, whose team worked closely with the council and project consultants. Project architect, Kyle Goldstack, of Archistudio, also worked collaboratively with council, stakeholders and the wider design team to create a building that balances strong civic presence with warmth, accessibility and community connection. Supporting the operation of Te Ara Mātauranga are three new team members, including a programme manager focused on establishing programmes and training. The facility has dedicated meeting rooms available to the public for both training and general use. “These spaces are already seeing strong demand, which is a really positive sign of community interest and engagement,” says Valeta Duncan, Western Bay of Plenty District Council customer services manager. Since the opening, the number of items being checked out and library visitor numbers have also increased significantly compared to the old library in its closing months. Owens Flooring 07 863 5723 / Showroom 027 233 7277 www.owensflooring.co.nz 55 Wilson Road, Waihi Beach 3611 showroom@owensflooring.co.nz We Have All Your Flooring Needs Covered Flooring Sales & Installation Domestic & Commercial PILE DRIVING RETAINING WALLS DRILLING CONTRACTORS Phone BRAD ALBISTON 027 632 0853 brad@waikatopostramming.co.nz www.waikatopostramming.co.nz Covering all areas of: DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL PLUMBING • GAS FITTING • ROOF REPAIRS • DRAIN UNBLOCKING & CCTVWORK • SEPTIC TANKS • WASTEWATER - SYSTEMS • STORMWATER SYSTEMS TANKS & PUMPS FILTERS www.plumbingworks.co.nz | 0800 002 009 | office@plumbingworks.co.nz Celebrating 40 years Membership of NZ Master Plumbers Servicing Tauranga and the greater BOP area for over 42 years
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